Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method comprising: detecting, by one or more processor, a first personal electronic device associated with a first user in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user; determining, by the one or more processor, the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting, wherein the determining comprises determining a location of the first personal electronic device, and wherein the determining comprises determining an identity of the location as a business office location, wherein the method further includes preventing of sharing of data between the first user and the second user in response to a determination respecting location that the first user and the second user are in a common publicly accessible area, wherein the determination respecting location is performed using a mapping database that maps locations to uses of locations; receiving, by the one or more processor, user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting; and storing, by the one or more processor, the received user data regarding the second user in a first memory for access by the first user on the first personal electronic device.
This invention relates to a system for managing data sharing between personal electronic devices in business settings. The method detects when a first user's device is near a second user's device and determines if they are in a business environment, such as an office, using location data and a mapping database that categorizes locations by their use. If the users are in a shared public area, data sharing is blocked. However, if they are in a business setting, the system retrieves and stores user data about the second person on the first user's device, allowing the first user to access it later. The system ensures data privacy in public spaces while facilitating professional networking in business environments. The method uses location-based context to control data sharing, preventing unauthorized access while enabling relevant information exchange in appropriate settings. The mapping database helps classify locations to determine whether data sharing should be restricted or allowed.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the determining an identity of the location includes using a mapping database that maps locations to uses of locations and wherein the determining includes determining using the mapping database that the location is a business office location and wherein the receiving user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting includes receiving the user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting in response to the determination that the location is a business office location. the determination that the location is a business office location.
This invention relates to a method for managing user interactions based on location context, specifically in business office settings. The method involves determining the identity of a location where users are present by querying a mapping database that associates locations with their designated uses. The system identifies whether the location is a business office, and if so, triggers the collection of user data for individuals in that setting. When two users are detected in a business office location, the system retrieves and processes user data for both individuals in response to the confirmed business context. The mapping database ensures accurate classification of locations, enabling context-aware data handling. The method enhances privacy and relevance by restricting data collection to verified business environments, ensuring interactions are appropriately managed based on the professional setting. This approach improves user experience by tailoring responses to the specific context of a business office, distinguishing it from other location types. The system dynamically adapts to location-based rules, ensuring compliance with privacy policies and optimizing interaction protocols for professional environments.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein the determining further includes employing natural language processing to classify a purpose of a calendar item of the second user as being business setting related and wherein the receiving user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting includes receiving the user data regarding the second user further in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting in response to the employing natural language processing to classify a purpose of a calendar item of the second user as being business setting related.
This invention relates to a system for selectively sharing user data between individuals based on contextual factors, particularly in business settings. The problem addressed is the need to automatically determine when two users are in a business context to facilitate appropriate data sharing while preserving privacy in non-business situations. The method involves analyzing calendar data of a second user to classify the purpose of their calendar items using natural language processing. If the calendar item is determined to be business-related, this triggers the system to collect and share user data about the second user with a first user. The system first determines whether the first and second users are in a business setting, and if so, proceeds to gather relevant user data about the second user. The natural language processing step enhances this determination by specifically identifying business-related calendar entries, ensuring that data sharing only occurs in appropriate professional contexts. This approach prevents unnecessary or inappropriate data disclosure while enabling seamless information exchange when users are engaged in business activities. The system dynamically adapts to the context of interactions, improving both privacy and functionality in collaborative environments.
4. A method comprising: detecting, by one or more processor, a first personal electronic device associated with a first user in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user; determining, by the one or more processor, the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting, wherein the determining comprises determining motion characteristics of the first personal electronic device, and wherein the determining comprises determining a handshake between the first user and the second user based on the motion characteristics of the first personal electronic device, and wherein the determining comprises confirming the business setting based on a role or company associated of the user data of the second user; receiving, by the one or more processor, user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting; and storing, by the one or more processor, the received user data regarding the second user in a first memory for access by the first user on the first personal electronic device.
This invention relates to a system for automatically detecting and exchanging business contact information between users in a professional setting. The method involves using one or more processors to detect when a first personal electronic device associated with a first user is in proximity to a second personal electronic device associated with a second user. The system determines whether the interaction occurs in a business context by analyzing motion characteristics of the first device to detect a handshake, a common professional gesture. Additionally, the system confirms the business setting by verifying the roles or company affiliations of the users based on their stored user data. Once the business context is confirmed, the system retrieves user data related to the second user, such as contact information, and stores it in a memory accessible to the first user on their device. This automation streamlines the process of exchanging business information, eliminating the need for manual data entry or physical business card exchanges. The system leverages motion sensing and user data verification to ensure accurate and context-appropriate information sharing.
5. The method of claim 4 further comprising receiving, by the one or more processor, user data regarding the first user in response to the determination of the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting, and storing, by the one or more processor, the retrieved user data regarding the first user in a second memory for access by the second user on the second personal electronic device.
This invention relates to a system for exchanging user data between personal electronic devices in a business setting. The problem addressed is the lack of automated data exchange between devices when users are in close proximity, particularly in professional environments where quick access to relevant information is valuable. The method involves detecting the presence of a first personal electronic device associated with a first user near a second personal electronic device associated with a second user. Upon detection, the system determines if the users are in a business setting. If confirmed, the system retrieves user data related to the first user, such as contact information, professional credentials, or other relevant details. This data is then stored in a second memory accessible to the second user on their device, enabling seamless information sharing without manual input. The system may also track the duration of proximity between devices and adjust data sharing based on contextual factors like the nature of the interaction or predefined user preferences. The stored data can be used for future reference, such as during follow-up communications or meetings. This approach enhances efficiency in professional networking and collaboration by automating the exchange of pertinent user information in real-time.
6. The method of claim 4 further comprising forwarding, by the one or more processor, a request for the user data regarding the second user in response to determination the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting.
This invention relates to a system for managing user data in a business setting using personal electronic devices. The problem addressed is the need to securely and contextually share user data between devices when users are in a business environment, ensuring privacy while facilitating necessary interactions. The method involves detecting the presence of a first personal electronic device associated with a first user near a second personal electronic device associated with a second user. Upon detecting this proximity, the system determines whether the users are in a business setting. If confirmed, the system automatically forwards a request for user data regarding the second user to the first user's device. This ensures that relevant information is shared only when appropriate, maintaining privacy in non-business contexts. The system leverages proximity detection and contextual awareness to enable seamless data exchange in professional environments while preventing unauthorized access. The method may also include additional steps such as authenticating the devices, verifying user identities, and encrypting transmitted data to enhance security. The invention aims to improve efficiency in business interactions by providing timely access to necessary user information while safeguarding personal privacy.
7. The method of claim 4 wherein the determining comprises determining the handshake between the first user and the second user based on the motion characteristics of the first personal electronic device, and a proximity of the first personal electronic device relative to the second personal electronic device.
This invention relates to a method for detecting and verifying a handshake interaction between two users, each equipped with a personal electronic device. The problem addressed is the need for reliable, automated handshake detection in social or professional settings, where manual verification is impractical or undesirable. The method involves analyzing motion characteristics of a first user's device to identify handshake-like movements, such as rapid, reciprocal motion patterns typical of a handshake. Additionally, the device's proximity to a second user's device is measured to confirm that the interaction occurs between two individuals. The motion data may include acceleration, orientation, or vibration patterns, while proximity is determined using wireless signals like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The system may also cross-reference timestamps and spatial data to ensure the devices were in close proximity during the detected motion event. By combining motion analysis and proximity sensing, the method distinguishes genuine handshakes from other movements, reducing false positives. This approach enables applications in social networking, security authentication, or contact tracing, where handshake verification is needed without manual input. The solution improves accuracy over systems relying solely on motion or proximity data alone.
8. The method of claim 4 wherein the determining comprises determining an amount of time of the first personal electronic device associated with a first user being at rest and being in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user.
This invention relates to methods for analyzing interactions between personal electronic devices to determine social or behavioral patterns. The problem addressed is the need to accurately assess the duration and context of interactions between individuals based on their device usage, particularly when devices are stationary and in proximity to each other. The method involves determining the amount of time a first personal electronic device, associated with a first user, remains at rest while in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user. The determination is based on detecting when the first device is stationary and within a defined range of the second device, indicating a potential social interaction or shared environment. The method may also involve tracking movement patterns, signal strength, or other contextual data to refine the assessment of interaction duration. This approach helps quantify the duration of interactions between individuals, which can be useful for applications in social analytics, proximity-based services, or behavioral research. The method ensures that only meaningful interactions are recorded by filtering out transient or incidental device proximity, focusing instead on sustained periods of co-location. The technique may be integrated into existing device tracking systems or social networking platforms to enhance user engagement analysis.
9. The method of claim 4 wherein the determining comprises determining a proximity of the first personal electronic device relative to the second personal electronic device.
This invention relates to proximity detection between personal electronic devices, addressing the need for accurate and efficient location tracking in environments where devices may be in close proximity. The method involves determining the relative position of a first personal electronic device to a second personal electronic device, enabling applications such as secure data transfer, location-based services, or device pairing. The proximity determination is based on signal measurements, such as received signal strength, time of flight, or other wireless communication metrics, to assess the distance and direction between the devices. The method may also involve using multiple signal sources or sensors to improve accuracy, such as combining data from Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or ultra-wideband (UWB) signals. Additionally, the system may account for environmental factors like interference or multipath effects to refine the proximity calculation. The determined proximity can then be used to trigger actions, such as initiating a connection, adjusting settings, or providing notifications. This approach enhances user experience by enabling seamless interactions between devices without manual input, while also improving security by ensuring proximity-based authentication. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where precise location tracking is required, such as in smart home systems, wearable devices, or mobile payment applications.
10. The method of claim 4 wherein the determining comprises confirming the business setting based on the user data of the second user.
This invention relates to systems for determining business settings in a collaborative environment, such as a virtual workspace or communication platform. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify and apply appropriate business settings (e.g., privacy, access controls, or workflow rules) for interactions between users, particularly when one user's data can influence the context of the interaction. The method involves analyzing user data from a second user to confirm or adjust the business setting for an interaction involving a first user. The user data may include attributes like role, department, or organizational hierarchy, which help determine the correct business setting. For example, if the second user is a manager, the system may apply stricter access controls or different workflow rules compared to a non-manager. The method ensures that interactions are governed by the appropriate business rules, improving security, compliance, and efficiency in collaborative environments. The system may also involve collecting user data from multiple sources, such as profiles, activity logs, or external databases, to refine the determination. The method dynamically adjusts settings based on real-time data, ensuring that business rules remain relevant as user roles or organizational structures change. This approach reduces manual configuration and minimizes errors in applying the wrong settings.
11. The method of claim 4 wherein the determining comprises determining a frequency of the first personal electronic device associated with the first user being in the presence of the second personal electronic device associated with the second user.
This invention relates to methods for analyzing interactions between personal electronic devices to determine social or behavioral patterns. The problem addressed is the need to assess the frequency and nature of interactions between individuals based on their device proximity, which can be used for social network analysis, security monitoring, or personalized recommendations. The method involves determining how often a first personal electronic device associated with a first user is in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user. This is done by tracking the devices' locations over time and calculating the frequency of their co-location. The method may also involve analyzing additional factors, such as the duration of interactions, the physical distance between devices, or the context of the interactions (e.g., time of day, location type). The results can be used to infer social relationships, identify potential security risks, or tailor services based on user behavior. The method may further include comparing the determined frequency against predefined thresholds or patterns to classify the relationship between users (e.g., close friends, acquaintances, or strangers). The analysis can be applied in various domains, including social media, workplace monitoring, or smart home systems, to enhance user experience or security. The invention provides a way to quantify and interpret device-based interactions without requiring explicit user input.
12. The method of claim 1 wherein the determining motion characteristics of the first personal electronic device includes using an output of an accelerometer of the first personal electronic device, and wherein the determining a handshake between the first user and the second user based on the motion characteristics of the first personal electronic device includes determining, using an output of the accelerometer, that a gesture of the first user corresponds to a gesture in form of a handshake between users.
This invention relates to detecting handshakes between users using personal electronic devices equipped with motion sensors. The problem addressed is the need for automated, reliable handshake detection to facilitate social interactions, security protocols, or other applications where physical contact between users must be verified. The method involves analyzing motion data from an accelerometer in a first user's device to determine motion characteristics. These characteristics are then compared to predefined gesture patterns to identify if the motion corresponds to a handshake. Specifically, the accelerometer output is processed to detect whether the first user's gesture matches the typical motion profile of a handshake, such as the back-and-forth movement associated with shaking hands. The system may also incorporate additional sensors or contextual data to improve accuracy, though the core detection relies on accelerometer readings. This approach enables devices to recognize handshakes without requiring specialized hardware, leveraging existing motion sensors. Potential applications include secure authentication, social interaction logging, or gesture-based user interfaces. The method ensures that handshake detection is performed locally on the device, preserving privacy and reducing reliance on external systems.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein the determining the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting includes determining that the first user and the second user are in a business setting in dependence on an identifying, using sensor outputs of sensors disposed within respective first and second smartwatches, (a) a handshake motion gesture of the first user while the first user shakes hands with the second user with a hand associated to a wrist on which the first smartwatch is worn, (b) a handshake motion gesture of the second user while the second user shakes hands with the first user with a hand associated to a wrist on which the second smartwatch is worn, and further in dependence on a detecting that the first and second smartwatches are within a threshold distance of one another.
This invention relates to a system for detecting and confirming business interactions between individuals using smartwatches. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify when two users are engaging in a business-related handshake, distinguishing it from casual or social interactions. The solution involves smartwatches equipped with sensors that detect specific handshake motions and proximity between devices. The method determines that two users are in a business setting by analyzing sensor outputs from smartwatches worn by each user. The system identifies a handshake motion gesture performed by each user, where the gesture corresponds to the natural movement of shaking hands with the opposite user. The smartwatches must also detect that they are within a predefined threshold distance of each other, confirming physical proximity. By combining these inputs, the system can reliably infer that a business handshake has occurred, distinguishing it from other hand movements or casual interactions. This approach enhances the accuracy of detecting professional engagements in environments where multiple interactions may occur.
14. A method comprising: detecting, by one or more processor, a first personal electronic device associated with a first user in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user; determining, by the one or more processor, the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting, wherein the determining comprises determining an amount of time of the first personal electronic device associated with a first user being at rest and being in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user; receiving, by the one or more processor, user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting; and storing, by the one or more processor, the received user data regarding the second user in a first memory for access by the first user on the first personal electronic device.
This invention relates to a method for automatically capturing and storing user data in a business networking context. The method involves detecting when a first personal electronic device associated with a first user is in proximity to a second personal electronic device associated with a second user. The system determines whether the interaction occurs in a business setting by analyzing the amount of time the first device remains at rest while near the second device, indicating a potential business exchange. Upon confirming the business setting, the system retrieves user data associated with the second user, such as contact information or professional details, and stores it in a memory accessible to the first user on their device. This automation streamlines business networking by eliminating manual data entry, ensuring relevant information is captured during professional interactions. The method leverages proximity detection and contextual analysis to identify meaningful business encounters, enhancing efficiency in professional networking scenarios.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein the determining comprises confirming the business setting based on a role or company associated of the user data of the second user.
This invention relates to systems for managing access to digital content based on user roles or company affiliations. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and context-appropriate access to digital resources by verifying a user's business setting before granting permissions. The method involves analyzing user data to confirm a user's role or company association, which then determines whether access to specific content or features should be allowed. This verification step prevents unauthorized access and ensures compliance with organizational policies. The system may also track user interactions with content to refine access controls over time. By dynamically adjusting permissions based on verified business context, the invention enhances security while maintaining usability. The method is particularly useful in enterprise environments where role-based access control (RBAC) is critical for protecting sensitive information. The invention may be implemented in software applications, cloud services, or other digital platforms requiring granular access management. The core innovation lies in the automated verification of user attributes to enforce access policies without manual intervention. This approach reduces administrative overhead while improving security posture. The system may also integrate with existing identity management solutions to streamline user authentication and authorization workflows.
16. The method of claim 14 wherein the determining an amount of time of the first personal electronic device associated with a first user being at rest and being in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user includes determining that that the first personal electronic device and the second personal electronic device are not being transported by a moving transportation vehicle and wherein the receiving user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user being in the business setting includes receiving user data regarding the second user in response to the determination of the first user and the second user are not being transported by the moving transportation vehicle.
This invention relates to methods for determining interactions between users of personal electronic devices in business settings, particularly when the devices are stationary and not in transit. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately identifying meaningful user interactions by distinguishing between scenarios where users are actively engaged in a business context versus situations where devices are merely co-located due to transportation (e.g., in a vehicle). The method involves analyzing data from a first device associated with a first user to determine if it is at rest and in proximity to a second device associated with a second user. Key steps include verifying that neither device is being transported by a moving vehicle, ensuring the interaction occurs in a business setting. Once confirmed, user data related to the second user is retrieved, enabling context-aware applications such as networking, collaboration, or security protocols. The approach enhances the reliability of proximity-based interactions by filtering out transient or incidental co-location events, ensuring data collection is relevant to business activities. This method improves the accuracy of user interaction tracking in professional environments, supporting applications like automated contact logging, access control, or personalized service delivery.
17. The method of claim 14 wherein the method further includes preventing of sharing of data between the first user and the second user in response to a determination respecting location that the first user and the second user are in a common publicly accessible area, wherein the determination respecting location is performed using a mapping database that maps locations to uses of locations.
This invention relates to privacy control in data sharing systems, specifically preventing unauthorized data exchange between users in public spaces. The method detects when two users are in a common publicly accessible area using location data and a mapping database that categorizes locations by their public accessibility. When such a location is identified, the system automatically blocks data sharing between the users to prevent unintended privacy breaches. The mapping database associates geographic coordinates with location types, enabling the system to determine whether a shared location is public or private. The method ensures that sensitive information is not exchanged in environments where privacy cannot be guaranteed, such as public parks, transit stations, or other shared spaces. This approach enhances user privacy by dynamically adjusting data-sharing permissions based on real-time location context. The system may also notify users when sharing is restricted due to their location, providing transparency in privacy enforcement. The invention is particularly useful in mobile applications, social networks, or enterprise systems where location-based privacy controls are required.
18. The method of claim 14 wherein the determining the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting includes determining that the first user and the second user are in a business setting in dependence on an examining of historical data indicating that the first user and the second user have been in close proximity with one another multiple times in the past.
This invention relates to methods for determining the presence of personal electronic devices in a business setting based on historical proximity data. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify when two users are in a business context, such as a meeting or collaboration, by analyzing their past interactions. The method involves determining that a first personal electronic device is in the presence of a second personal electronic device, where the first device is associated with a first user and the second device is associated with a second user. The determination that the users are in a business setting is made by examining historical data that shows the first and second users have been in close proximity to each other multiple times in the past. This historical data may include records of previous interactions, such as device proximity logs, communication records, or location history, to establish a pattern of repeated encounters. By leveraging this historical data, the system can infer that the current proximity is likely part of a recurring business relationship, such as regular meetings or ongoing collaboration. This allows for more accurate context-aware applications, such as automated scheduling, secure data sharing, or business-related notifications, without requiring explicit user input. The method ensures that the business setting is identified based on verifiable past behavior rather than a single instance of proximity.
19. The method of claim 14 wherein the determining the first personal electronic device in the presence of the second personal electronic device being associated with the first user and the second user being in a business setting includes determining based on an examining of data that there are currently a plurality of persons affiliated with a first enterprise of the first user, and currently a plurality of persons affiliated with a second enterprise of the second user, at a common location.
This invention relates to methods for detecting and verifying the presence of personal electronic devices in a business setting to facilitate secure interactions between users. The problem addressed is the need to accurately determine when two individuals, each associated with different enterprises, are physically present in the same location to enable secure business transactions or communications. The method involves analyzing data to confirm that multiple individuals affiliated with a first enterprise and multiple individuals affiliated with a second enterprise are currently at a common location. This determination is used to verify that a first personal electronic device, associated with a first user from the first enterprise, is in the presence of a second personal electronic device associated with a second user from the second enterprise. The presence verification is based on contextual data, such as location information, enterprise affiliations, and the presence of multiple individuals from each enterprise at the same location, ensuring that the interaction occurs in a legitimate business context. This approach enhances security by reducing the risk of unauthorized access or fraudulent transactions, as it relies on real-world presence verification rather than just digital authentication. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where secure business interactions, such as contract signings or data exchanges, require physical proximity and mutual verification of enterprise affiliations.
20. The method of claim 14 wherein the method further includes preventing of sharing of data between the first user and the second user in response to a determination that the first user and the second user are in a common publicly accessible area, wherein the determination that the first user and the second user are in a publicly accessible area is performed using a mapping database that maps locations to uses of locations, wherein the mapping database includes data specifying that a certain location occupied by the first user and the second user is a common publicly accessible area, wherein the method further includes preventing of sharing of data between the first user and the second user in response to a determination that the first user and the second user are traveling together on a moving vehicle, wherein the method further includes preventing of sharing of data between the first user and the second user in response to a determination that period of time that the first user and the second user have been in proximity with one another is less than a specified threshold period of time, and wherein the method includes preventing the sharing of data between the first user and the second user in response to the determination that a location occupied by the first user and the second user is occupied by less than two persons affiliated with a first enterprise of the first user, and less than two persons affiliated with a second enterprise of the second user.
This invention relates to a method for controlling data sharing between users based on their physical proximity and contextual factors. The method prevents unauthorized or inappropriate data sharing by analyzing multiple conditions. First, it determines if two users are in a common publicly accessible area, such as a park or public transportation, using a mapping database that categorizes locations by their accessibility. If they are in such an area, data sharing is blocked. Second, the method checks if the users are traveling together on a moving vehicle, such as a bus or train, and prevents data sharing if they are. Third, it evaluates the duration of proximity between the users; if they have been near each other for less than a specified time threshold, sharing is restricted. Finally, the method verifies if the location contains at least two individuals affiliated with each user's respective enterprise. If fewer than two representatives from either enterprise are present, data sharing is prohibited. This approach enhances security by dynamically assessing environmental and contextual factors before allowing data exchange.
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September 1, 2020
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